PINEHURST, NORTH CAROLINA – JUNE 13: Phil Mickelson of the United States reacts after his shot on the 11th tee during the first round of the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort on June 13, 2024 in Pinehurst, North Carolina. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

Phil Mickelson has always been haunted by the U.S. Open, but Thursday afternoon brought something a little unexpected.

The U.S. Open is the only major tournament Mickelson failed to conquer during his illustrious golf career. He’s finished second or tied for second in six U.S. Opens in the past, but never been able to get the win.

If he wants to do so this weekend he’ll need a miracle. The lefty opened with a nine-over, 79 on Thursday afternoon after he racked up nine bogeys to go along with nine pars on the day.

He currently sits just one shot above last place and a staggering 14 shots off the lead by Patrick Cantlay.

Fans were sad to see his tough performance on Thursday.

“Phil Mickelson just refuses to hang em up. Kinda sad to watch, really,” one fan said, including a gif of a floating and fiery garbage can.

“Phil Mickelson tied dead last with two amateurs at +9 is the funniest thing I’ve ever seen!!! LIV clown show continues,” offered another.

“Good news for Phil Mickelson fans, he’s at 68 on a par 70 course. Bad news, he still has 3 holes to play,” joked a third during his round.

It was a brutal performance from Mickelson today. While Pinehurst is a tough course and the cut line is bound to be over par, he’ll likely be on the outside looking in tomorrow night.